2020 Subaru Forester: A Versatile and Safe Compact SUV
The 2020 Subaru Forester continues its legacy as a capable, comfortable, and safe compact SUV, appealing to a broad range of buyers seeking practical transportation with a touch of adventure. Known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and strong commitment to safety, the Forester remains a compelling choice in its segment.
Highlights
- Engine and Performance: The 2020 Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed "Boxer" engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired exclusively with Subaru's Lineartronic® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which contributes to good fuel economy for an AWD vehicle. The powertrain provides adequate acceleration for daily driving and highway cruising.
- Safety Features: Subaru's dedication to safety is a cornerstone of the Forester. Standard on all trims is the Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, a suite of advanced safety features that includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Pre-Collision Braking: Can apply the brakes automatically to help avoid or mitigate frontal collisions.
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management: Reduces engine power if a frontal collision is imminent and the driver unexpectedly accelerates.
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane or exhibits signs of swaying.
- Lane Keep Assist: Gently steers the vehicle back into its lane if it drifts too close to the lane markers.
- High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on traffic conditions.
- Additional available safety features include Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking, further enhancing the Forester's protective capabilities.
- Trim Summary: The 2020 Forester is offered in several well-equipped trims:
- Forester Base: The entry-level model offers a solid foundation of features, including the standard AWD and EyeSight suite.
- Forester Premium: Adds comfort and convenience features like a 10-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, and an all-weather package.
- Forester Sport: Distinguishes itself with unique exterior and interior styling cues, including dark exterior accents, orange interior stitching, and a sport-tuned suspension.
- Forester Limited: Elevates the luxury with leather-trimmed upholstery, a power rear gate, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Forester Touring: The top-tier trim boasts premium features such as a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, a panoramic power sunroof, and Subaru's latest infotainment system with a larger touchscreen.
- Notable Aspects:
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: This is a defining characteristic of Subaru vehicles, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions and light off-road situations.
- Excellent Visibility: The Forester's large windows and elevated seating position offer superb outward visibility, making it easy to navigate and park.
- Spacious Interior: The cabin provides ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, and the 60/40 split-folding rear seats enhance cargo flexibility.
- X-MODE: Available on most trims, X-MODE enhances off-road capability by optimizing engine output, transmission ratios, and braking for specific terrain conditions.
What to Expect
Owning a 2020 Subaru Forester generally translates to a predictable and reliable ownership experience. Subaru vehicles are known for their longevity and consistent performance. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, will be straightforward and typically fall within the average cost range for the compact SUV segment. Expect to follow Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule to keep the Forester in optimal condition.
Insurance costs for the Forester are generally competitive, especially considering its standard safety features which can sometimes lead to lower premiums. However, individual rates will vary based on your driving history, location, and chosen insurance provider.
Potential Considerations
While the Forester is a well-rounded vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of:
- Engine Power: While the 2.5-liter engine is sufficient for most driving needs, some drivers might find its acceleration somewhat uninspiring, particularly when merging onto highways or carrying heavy loads. If spirited acceleration is a priority, this might be a point of consideration.
- CVT Feel: The CVT, while efficient, can sometimes exhibit a "rubber band" effect where engine RPMs rise before the vehicle's speed catches up, which some drivers find less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission.
- Interior Materials: While comfortable and functional, some interior materials, particularly on lower trims, might not feel as premium or as soft to the touch as some competitors. Higher trims do offer more refined materials.
- Infotainment Responsiveness: On some older infotainment systems in earlier models, there were occasional reports of slower touchscreen responsiveness. However, Subaru continuously updates its systems, so this may be less of an issue on the 2020 model.
Overall Summary
The 2020 Subaru Forester stands out as a practical, safe, and highly capable compact SUV. Its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, comprehensive suite of EyeSight safety technologies, spacious and versatile interior, and excellent visibility make it an attractive option for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a dependable daily driver. While it may not be the most powerful or the most luxurious in its class, its well-rounded nature and strong value proposition solidify its position as a highly recommendable choice.